Sex gene pool evolution and speciation: a new paradigm.

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Biology
• Genetics
• Reproductive Science

Background:

• Sexual selection plays a crucial role in evolution.
• Numerous studies highlight the rapid evolution of sexual traits across diverse taxa.
• Genes influencing sexual function and fertility exhibit accelerated DNA sequence divergence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review literature on the rapid evolution of sex and reproduction related (SRR) genes.
• To propose a paradigm shift towards studying SRR genes for novel evolutionary insights.
• To explore how SRR gene evolution can address fundamental problems in evolutionary biology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on SRR gene evolution.
• Analysis of case studies demonstrating rapid evolution of sexual traits.
• Examination of DNA sequence divergence rates in SRR genes.
• Proposal of a sex/non-sex dichotomy in the gene pool (viability vs. fertility).

Main Results:

• SRR genes evolve rapidly, influencing sexual selection and speciation.
• Evidence suggests novel genes are involved in sexual functions.
• A dichotomy between genes affecting viability and fertility is proposed.
• This dichotomy offers new perspectives on speciation, species concepts, and evolutionary rules.

Conclusions:

• The rapid evolution of SRR genes is a significant factor in evolutionary processes.
• Adopting a gene dichotomy (viability vs. fertility) can resolve old evolutionary problems.
• Understanding the genetic basis of speciation hinges on studying genes affecting viability and fertility.